Fri. August 16, 2013
Chicago, IL -
Developers behind the proposed OUT Chicago Hotel in Boystown are back with another set of new designs after neighbors shot down the project in July.
Ian Reisner and architects at Koo and Associates introduced the renderings Thursday, according to Lakeview Patch. The latest designs show a more rounded black exterior, more windows and even another version in the original white color.
The renderings still retains a lot of what Reisner introduced to Belmont Harbor Neighbors last month when he revealed the smaller 8-story building over Wood, rather than over Sidetrack. The building at 3343 N. Halsted St. was once proposed to be 12 stories, then was reduced to 10, followed by another cut at neighbors' request.
Softening the building's harsh edges is a move Reisner and his architects made in hopes of swaying residents to back the OUT Hotel.
In July, Belmont Harbor Neighbors' 5-person board unanimously decided not to recommend the resort to Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) because some thought it didn't fit in with Lakeview.
Reisner argues the multi-million dollar development would only increase safety in a neighborhood faced with crime.
"I'm bringing a major lifestyle resort to a neighborhood might increase property values," Reisner said. "I don't hear other people talking about bringing a major resort to a neighborhood with high crime, that has businesses that are telling me their business is down. So I'm surprised I'm not hearing anyone speak about the vibrancy a 4-star hotel would bring to the neighborhood."
Triangle Neighbors and the Northalsted Business Alliance have recently voted to approve the hotel. The neighborhood groups are not the final decision, they are just recommendations for Ald. Tunney.
Read more on Lakeview Patch
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